“When you see someone putting on his Big Boots, you can be pretty sure that an Adventure is going to happen.”

— A.A Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh

Welcome to Trimmer Travel! Get ready to put on your Big Boots and join our family in a great Adventure.

Living in California, we are going to explore the golden state to show you a little peek into what we have to offer. Millions of visitors flood to the beaches and many attractions each year.

First stop, the Santa Barbara Zoo!

After parking, we glance this banner on our way to the entrance. The picture-taking team is ready as we arrive to capture our first glimpse of the black swans, but we quickly side-step to move on to the river otters.

This zoo boasts an insect house, old alligator, colony of mere cats, just to highlight a few. In years past, they had a giraffe with a crooked neck and a ton of river otter babies whose antics were a huge crowd pleaser.

Sadly, we miss our elephants, lions, and snow leopards, and are hopeful for some replacements soon.

Then there are the giraffes! They not only eat the leaves off of every tree in sight, but they also strip the bark for food and water. One of the most amazing giraffe facts is that they have the same amount of bones in their necks as people. If only we had their reach.

And you would not believe his view!

But now, we visit Humboldt penguins and flamingos from South America, along with false water cobras and gibbons who yell gleefully at all comers. There is always something to engage each guest around the next corner. Of course, you could be like Christopher Robin, and hurry through the zoo to his favorite Bear, or slowly meander along viewing each animal in turn.

For the littler peeps in your group, a ride on the zoo train is a trip not to be missed. If you have a membership, the train ride is discounted, too. Hop on and get a tour of the zoo’s perimeter!

While you are being regaled with all the corny jokes and getting to see the interesting parts of the animal habitats, remember to look out to your left at the lovely lagoon or estuary if you like. Beauty surrounds you, while you walk or ride.

As for the food, well, zoo food is pretty typical of these venues. Ok, and over priced, but if you are in a rush, and the kids need something now, go for it. However, one of the delights of the Santa Barbara Zoo is lots of open grassy spaces and picnic tables where many families choose to picnic. Pack a lunch if you have time, save some cash, and enjoy each other.

The zoo can easy be done in two hours or less, which makes for a great outing for Mom and the kids are happy too, even though for the younger set, nap time is on the horizon now.

Just remember, if you are headed home south on the 101 freeway, be sure to wave at the iconic Santa Claus on your left hand side. He was moved years ago from his original location closer to Santa Barbara, weirdly enough on Santa Claus Lane.

Tell them Heather sent you.

Enjoy the Adventure!